Happy Birthday, Mrs. Tubman!
Harriet Tubman stands as one of the most influential Black women in history – her bravery and resilience inspiring generations. From her courageous work along the Underground Railroad to her pivotal role in advocating for women’s rights, Tubman’s legacy continues to resonate. In honor of her birth month and Women’s History Month, let’s delve into the remarkable life of this iconic figure, explore places where her footsteps left an indelible mark, and discover upcoming events honoring her legacy in Cayuga County.
Facts & Traits
Born Araminta Ross in Dorchester County, Maryland, Harriet Tubman’s legacy began with her birth in March. Tubman possessed a remarkable set of traits that fueled her activism and leadership:
- Bravery. During her escape, Harriet Tubman resolved to either secure liberty or face death, demonstrating self-sacrifice in risking her life on rescue missions and during the Civil War. Frederick Douglass once wrote to Tubman, “Aside from John Brown, I know of no one who has willingly faced more perils to serve our enslaved people than you.”
- Compassion. Harriet Tubman, deeply affected by the indignity and harsh realities of slavery, sought to lessen its toll on others. Her efforts were driven by a yearning for freedom, equality, and the safety of her family and fellow travelers, whom she affectionately called her “brood.”
- Perseverance. Tubman’s ingenuity and strategic thinking allowed her to navigate dangerous territories, outsmarting slave catchers and ensuring the success of her missions.
- Spirituality. Harriet Tubman’s unwavering faith stemmed from her spiritual upbringing, where she regarded God as her creator, guide, protector, and deliverer. According to William Garrett, Tubman believed that her mission was ordained by God, granting her the strength and trust to undertake perilous endeavors to rescue others.
Moreover, Tubman’s personal preferences, such as her fondness for apples and strawberries, offer glimpses into her humanity and everyday joys.
Walk in Her Footsteps
To truly grasp the magnitude of Tubman’s impact, one can visit various locations in Cayuga County that bear witness to her extraordinary journey:
- Harriet Tubman Home. Explore the Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn, where Tubman spent 50+ years of her life and discover artifacts that illuminate her life and legacy.
- William H. Seward House. Visit the William H. Seward House, where Tubman forged alliances with notable abolitionists like Seward and his wife Frances, advancing the cause of freedom.
- Harriet Tubman National Historical Park. The National Park Service preserves the Thompson Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church (which is slated to reopen to the public this year after its restoration), where Tubman attended service for 22 years and her funeral service was held.
- Fort Hill Cemetery. Pay your respects at Tubman’s final resting place. The cemetery includes the sites of other notable figures such as William and Frances Seward, Martha Coffin Wright.
Harriet Tubman Week
- Celebrate Harriet Tubman Day in Auburn, her chosen hometown and resting place, on March 10. Join the festivities starting at 4 p.m. at the NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center, featuring special guests, live music, and more. Then, head to Auburn Public Theater at 5 p.m. for a panel discussion hosted by the Harriet Tubman Boosters, exploring how to honor Tubman’s legacy for future generations.
- Participate in the 2nd Annual “You Matter” Women’s Conference, hosted by the NAACP and the Harriet Tubman Liberation Foundation from March 8-10. Over the course of the three days, attendees will hear from Women of Color facilitators who are experts in their fields about vital, life-changing information on women’s healthcare, mental healthcare, spiritual direction, nutrition, eldercare, and yoga.
- While in town for the weekend, enjoy the festivities that come with the Brave Brews Festival, March 8-10. This weekend kick-off to Women’s History Month supports the women and non-binary individuals of New York’s craft beverage industry while paying homage to central historical figures like Harriet Tubman.
Tour Cayuga is unveiling the first of five posters in a series honoring the historical figures who have resided within Cayuga County.
In celebration of Harriet Tubman Week, the first poster will honor Harriet Tubman, depicting her as she might have looked during her early years in Auburn.
Created by David Owens of Owens Illustrations in collaboration with rangers from the National Park Service at the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, the poster portrays Tubman standing in front of the AME Zion Church, part of the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, which will reopen later this year.
Stop by the Cayuga County Tourism Office inside the NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center to pick up your own copy (available after March 9)!